‘I don’t approach games in the same way’ Spurs’ Tanguy Ndombele opens up about change

Ndombele’s evolved under Mourinho

Jose Mourinho spoke out at the end of 2020 about how the French midfielder Tanguy Ndombele had gone under a process of evolution at the club and gradually earned his place back into his team.

“We are happy, apart from a couple of matches where his performances were not good. Overall there was a big evolution,” said Mourinho. “He’s a player who is playing very well and is giving some good things to the team.”

“In his case, he’s adapting to a league that is not new, new, new for him but let’s forget last season where he didn’t play much and had lots of injuries.”

“This season I believe to play at this intensity and to give the team what it needs with and without the ball, it’s not easy for him to last 90 minutes. To play at this intensity – Premier League intensity – and to last for 90 minutes is another step in the direction of his fitness.”

He has scored 3 goals and helped with an assist in the league. He has scored a further 2 in Spurs’ FA Cup run and converted a crucial goal in the club’s European qualification match with Lokomotiv Plovdiv.

With Lucas Moura, Erik Lamela and Dele Alli having been used more recently in a central attacking role, the Frenchman has regressed into the more defensive position alongside Pierre Emile-Hojbjerg.

Ndombele approaching games differently

Ndombele struggled initially under Jose Mourinho, even reportedly saying that he would not play again for the Portuguese coach after a falling out between the pair. Since, he has reintegrated himself into the first team and become a regular under the former Manchester United and Chelsea coach.

Speaking to French outlet RMC Sport, Ndombele opened up about the changes he has made this season and where he has seen improvements in his game.

“I think yes,” he said when asked if he had changed.

“I don’t approach games the same way. I have more confidence and the club has helped me to have more confidence in myself. I also worked physically during the break from the championships last season, so I’m less injured. I am more mature too. Afterwards, I have less madness in my game, but that’s how it is.

“I feel it. I have less recklessness in my game. There are times when I can project myself and move forward and I do it less. Before, I wouldn’t have asked myself any questions. That’s what I feel.”

When questioned on whether the changes he has made in becoming more defensive is less fun for him, he was bullish in his response.

“No not necessarily,” he said. “There are things I didn’t do before that I enjoy now. More defending, running, tackling. Before, it was more dribbling, making assists. I have freedom, the coach knows that. I’m not a player who can be told to stay put. I need a little freedom but I try not to abuse it and do what’s right for the team.”

Ndombele could be crucial for Spurs as they prepare to face Arsenal in the North London derby.

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Source: 101greatgoals.com